Is it routine?

• is it a common health problem such as a cold, sore throat or earache?
• do you need advice about medications?
• can you treat the symptoms at home?

Pharmacists - are qualified to give information on all kinds of ailments - you don’t need an appointment and they can advise on over-the-counter medicines

Is it serious?

• do you want advice quickly?
• is medical help needed within the next few hours?
• has the problem changed?

NHS Direct - For 24/7 healthcare advice call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47. They will advise you what to do next.

Contact your GP surgery - phone your surgery to make an appointment. Follow the recorded instructions if the surgery is closed.

Minor injuries and illness unit – based at Wycombe Hospital. For minor injuries or illnesses that can’t be dealt with at home, come here instead of A&E.

Is it an emergency?

• is it life threatening or critical?

A&E/999 - is for emergencies only. It’s the right place to go if you are seriously ill or have an injury that is not classed as minor, for example loss of consciousness, severe chest pain, heart attack, head injury, severe loss of blood, suspected broken bones, severe breathing difficulty, or deep wounds.